Mebeverine

• Mebeverine is often taken to treat the cramps and bloating associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Mebeverine is an antispasmodic medication
• The medication is sometimes known by its brand names Colofac or Aurobeverine
• It is important to read the patient leaflet for a full list of side effects and cautions.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common condition that causes digestive symptoms. The symptoms tend to come and go, lasting days, weeks or even months. Often, IBS can be very frustrating, distressing, and can affect your quality of life. The exact cause is not fully understood, although it may be linked to genetics, stress, or increased sensitivity of the nerves in the bowel.

IBS can cause stomach cramps, bloating and discomfort in the abdomen. Mebeverine is an antispasmodic medication that relaxes the muscles in the wall of your digestive system to relieve the discomfort and stop the cramping. 

Mebeverine can sometimes help to relieve other symptoms associated with IBS including non-specific diarrhoea and constipation. 

Mebeverine is a tablet that should be swallowed with some water. It is recommended that one tablet is taken three times a day, preferably 20 minutes before a main meal. 

It may take several weeks for the symptoms to resolve, and at this time the daily dosage can be gradually reduced.

A sustained release preparation of mebeverine is available if you wish to reduce the number of tablets you need to take each day.

Each tablet contains 135mg of mebeverine.

Like all medications, Mebeverine can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

• Skin itching
• Mild hypersensitivity or allergic reactions.

These side effects are likely to settle down, but if they persist or become troublesome you should speak to your doctor for further advice.

Serious allergic reactions happen very rarely. If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip swelling or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Mebeverine may not be suitable for everyone. You should first speak to your doctor to rule out a more serious cause of your digestive symptoms if you:

• Are aged over 40 and have not used mebeverine before
• Have passed blood in your stools
• Have nausea or vomiting (feel sick or have been sick)
• Have lost your appetite
• Have lost weight
• Look pale
• Feel tired
• Are very constipated
• Have a fever
• Have recently travelled abroad
• Have abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Have difficulty passing urine
• Are pregnant, trying to conceive, or breastfeeding.

If you have galactose intolerance, you should not take mebeverine.

If your symptoms do not resolve after taking mebeverine for 2 weeks you should consult your doctor, as you may require further investigation.

Because Mebeverine may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Mebeverine will not interact with them. 

Once prescribed, Mebeverine will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription. Mebeverine will then be conveniently dispatched from one of our partner pharmacies.